Chickenpox (Varicella)-Topic Overview Chickenpox (Varicella) Credits What is chickenpox? Chickenpox (varicella) is a contagious illness that causes an itchy rash and red spots or blisters (pox) all over the body. Chickenpox can cause problems for pregnant women, newborns, teens and adults, and people who have immune system problems that make it hard for the body to fight infection. Chickenpox usually isn't a serious health problem in healthy children. But a child with chickenpox needs to stay home from school. And you may need to miss work in order to care for your child. After you have had chickenpox, you aren't likely to get it again. But the virus stays in your body long after you get over the illness. If the virus becomes active again, it can cause a painful viral infection called shingles . What causes chickenpox, and how is it spread? Chickenpox is caused by the varicella- zoster virus . It can spread easily. You can get it from an infected person who sneezes, coughs , or shares food or drinks.

You can also get it if you touch the fluid from a chickenpox blister. A person who has chickenpox can spread the virus even before he or she has any symptoms. Chickenpox is most easily spread from 2 to 3 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over. You are at risk for chickenpox if you have never had the illness and haven't had the chickenpox vaccine . If someone you live with gets chickenpox, your risk is even higher because of the close contact. What are the symptoms? The first symptoms of chickenpox usually develop about 14 to 16 days after contact with a person infected with the virus. Most people feel sick and have a fever, a decreased appetite, a headache , a cough , and a sore throat . The itchy chickenpox rash usually appears about 1 or 2 days after the first symptoms start. After a chickenpox red spot appears, it usually takes about 1 or 2 days for the spot to go through all its stages. This includes blistering, bursting, drying, and crusting over. New red spots will appear every day for up to 5 to 7 days.

It usually takes about 10 days after the first symptoms before all blisters have crusted over. This is when the person with chickenpox can return to day care , school, or work. Continued How is chickenpox diagnosed? Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and will examine you. This usually gives your doctor enough information to find out if you have chickenpox. A healthy child with chickenpox symptoms may not need to visit a doctor. You may be able to describe your child's symptoms to the doctor over the phone. Teenagers, adults, pregnant women, and people with health problems need to see a doctor for chickenpox. This is especially important for pregnant women, since chickenpox during pregnancy can cause birth defects or serious newborn infection. How is it treated? Most healthy children and adults need only home treatment for chickenpox. Home treatment includes resting and taking medicines to reduce fever and itching . You also can soak in oatmeal baths to help with itching . People with long-term diseases or other health problems may need more treatment for chickenpox. They may need immunoglobulin treatment (IG) or antiviral medicine.

Your doctor can give you these soon after you are exposed to the virus to help you feel better sooner. How can you prevent chickenpox? You can prevent chickenpox with the chickenpox vaccine . Children get the chickenpox vaccine as part of their routine immunizations . If you have been around a person who has the virus and you have not had chickenpox or the vaccine , you still may be able to prevent the illness. Get a shot of chickenpox antibodies (immunoglobulin) or the vaccine right away. Frequently Asked Questions Varicella-Zoster Virus (Chickenpox and Shingles) & Communicable Diseases | Health & Senior Services Varicella-Zoster Virus (Chickenpox and Shingles) What is varicella-zoster? Varicella-zoster is a herpes virus that causes chickenpox, a common childhood illness. It is highly contagious. If an adult develops chickenpox, the illness may be more severe. After a person has had chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus can remain inactive in the body for many years. Herpes zoster (shingles) occurs when the virus becomes active again. What illnesses does varicella-zoster cause?

Chickenpox first occurs as a blister-like skin rash and fever. It takes from 10-21 days after exposure for someone to develop chickenpox. The sores commonly occur in batches with different stages (bumps, blisters, and sores) present at the same time. The blisters usually scab over in 5 days. A person with chickenpox is contagious 1-2 days before the rash appears and until all blisters have formed scabs. Children with weakened immune systems may have blisters occurring for a prolonged time period. Adults can develop severe pneumonia and other serious complications. Shingles occurs when the virus, which has been inactive for some time, becomes active again. Severe pain and numbness along nerve pathways, commonly on the trunk or on the face, are present. Clusters of blisters appear 1 to 5 days later. The blisters are usually on one side of the body and closer together than in chickenpox. Shingles does not spread as shingles from one person to another. If people who have never had chickenpox have contact with the fluid from the shingles blisters, they can develop chickenpox. Can you get chickenpox if you've been vaccinated?

Yes. About 15%–20% of people who have received one dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine do still get chickenpox if they are exposed, but their disease is usually mild. Vaccinated persons who get chickenpox generally have fewer than 50 spots or bumps, which may resemble bug bites more than typical, fluid-filled chickenpox blisters. In 2006, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend routine two-dose varicella vaccination for children. In one study, children who received two doses of varicella vaccine were three times less likely to get chickenpox than individuals who have had only one dose. Are chickenpox and shingles serious illnesses? The symptoms may be more severe in newborns, persons with weakened immune systems, and adults. Serious problems can occur and may include pneumonia (bacterial and viral), brain infection (encephalitis), and kidney problems. Many people are not aware that before a vaccine was available, approximately 10,600 persons were hospitalized, and 100 to 150 died, as a result of chickenpox in the U.S. every year.

What should I do about an exposure to varicella? If you have been in contact with someone with chickenpox or shingles, or if you have a rash-associated illness that might be chickenpox or shingles, discuss your situation with your healthcare provider. Blood tests may be done to see if you have become infected with the virus or have had the disease in the past. If you are pregnant and not immune and have been exposed to chickenpox or shingles, call your healthcare provider immediately. Your provider may choose to treat you with a medication called varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG), but in order for this medication to be most helpful, it needs to be given as soon as possible after your exposure to varicella. I'm pregnant and have recently been exposed to someone with chickenpox. How will this exposure affect me or my pregnancy? Susceptible pregnant women are at risk for associated complications when they contract varicella. Varicella infection causes severe illness in pregnant women, and 10%-20% of those infected develop varicella pneumonia, with mortality (death) reported as high as 40%.

Because of these risks, pregnant women without evidence of immunity to varicella who have been exposed to the virus may be given varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) to reduce their risk of disease complications. If you are pregnant and have never had chickenpox, and you get chickenpox during the: First half (about 20 weeks) of your pregnancy, there is a very slight risk (0.4% to 2%) for birth defects or miscarriage. Second half of your pregnancy, the baby may have infection without having any symptoms and then get shingles (zoster) later in life. Newborns whose mothers develop varicella rash from 5 days before to 2 days after delivery are at risk for neonatal varicella, associated with mortality as high as 30%. These infants should receive preventive treatment with varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG). I’m pregnant and have had a blood test for chickenpox. What do the results of this test show? The blood test can show that you: Are immune (have already had varicella disease or varicella vaccine) and have no sign of recent infection. You have nothing further to be concerned about.

Are not immune and have not yet been infected. You should avoid anyone with chickenpox during your pregnancy. Have or recently had an infection. You should discuss what the risks are for your stage of pregnancy with your healthcare provider. Is there a way I can keep from being infected with chickenpox? Yes, make sure all your vaccines are up to date, especially if you are planning a pregnancy. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and those you love. If you are not immune, you should be vaccinated. You will receive two doses of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine one month apart. You should avoid becoming pregnant for at least one month after the last vaccination. Varicella vaccine should not be given to pregnant women. If you are pregnant, have your healthcare provider give you the varicella vaccine after your baby is delivered. Shingles Vaccination, what you should know: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends shingles vaccine (Zostavax®) for people 60 years of age and older. This is a one-time vaccination to prevent shingles. There is no maximum age for getting the shingles vaccine.

Anyone 60 years of age or older should get the shingles vaccine, regardless of whether they recall having had chickenpox or not. Studies show that more than 99% of Americans ages 40 and older have had chickenpox, even if they don’t remember getting the disease. Your risk for getting shingles begins to rise around age 50. However, shingles vaccine (Zostavax®) is only recommended for persons age 60 and older because the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine have only been studied in this age group. Even if you have had shingles, you can still receive the shingles vaccine to help prevent future occurrences of the disease. There is no specific time that you must wait after having shingles before receiving the shingles vaccine. The decision on when to get vaccinated should be made with your healthcare provider. Generally, a person should make sure that the shingles rash has disappeared before getting vaccinated. Chickenpox or Varicella Zoster Virus Fact Sheet for Parents | CDC Español: Varicela The best way to protect against chickenpox is by getting the chickenpox (also called varicella) shot. Doctors recommend that all children who have never had chickenpox get the shot.

Why should my child get the chickenpox shot? The chickenpox shot: Protects your child from chickenpox, a potentially serious and even deadly disease Prevents your child from feeling itchy and uncomfortable from chickenpox Keeps your child from missing school or childcare (and keeps you from missing work to care for your sick child) Is the chickenpox shot safe? Yes. The chickenpox shot is very safe, and it works very well to prevent chickenpox. Vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects, but most children who get the chickenpox shot have no side effects. What are the side effects? Most children don’t have any side effects from the shot. However, some children may develop a reaction and symptoms may include: Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given Fever Mild rash There are two types of chickenpox shots. Talk to your child’s doctor about which one your child will get. What is chickenpox? Chickenpox is a disease that causes an itchy rash of blisters and a fever. A person with chickenpox may have a lot of blisters — as many as 500.

The rash can spread over the whole body—even inside the mouth, eyelids, or genital area. Chickenpox can be serious and even life-threatening, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. What are the symptoms of chickenpox? Chickenpox usually causes the following symptoms: An itchy rash of blisters Fever Feeling tired Is it serious? Chickenpox is usually mild in children, but the itching can be very uncomfortable. Children with chickenpox can miss up to one week of school or childcare. Before the vaccine was available, about 4 million people got chickenpox each year in the United States. About 10,600 of those people were hospitalized, and 100 to 150 died each year. In some cases, chickenpox can cause serious problems, such as: Skin infections Dehydration (not having enough water in the body) Pneumonia (an infection in the lungs) Swelling of the brain How does chickenpox spread? Chickenpox spreads easily through the air when a person who has chickenpox coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching an infected person’s blisters.

Chickenpox can be spread 1 to 2 days before the infected person gets a rash until all the blisters have formed scabs. Why not let my child get chickenpox naturally and build natural immunity? Chickenpox can be a mild disease, but it isn’t always. There’s no way to know who will have a mild case and who will become very sick. When your child gets his or her chickenpox shots, he or she is getting immunity from chickenpox without the risk of serious complications of the disease. Where can I learn more about the chickenpox shot and my child? To learn more about the chickenpox shot, talk to your child’s doctor, call 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit the CDC Vaccines for Parents site . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend all children receive their vaccines according to the recommended schedule. Fact Sheets for Parents The Link Between Chickenpox and Shingles Shingles & Chickenpox: What's the Link?

By Arthur Allen From the WebMD Archives Just before Christmas a few years ago, Richard DiCarlo, MD, woke up in the night with burning pain on his left side. Turning on a light, he saw a row of red bumps and knew immediately that he had shingles , also known as zoster , caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, dormant since a childhood infection. After shingles and a year of postherpetic neuralgia, a painful condition that made it difficult to sleep , DiCarlo, an infectious disease specialist at Louisiana State University in New Orleans, counts himself among the supporters of the shingles vaccine . The shingles vaccine Zostavax was licensed in the U.S. in 2006. Data from the Shingles Prevention Trial, which enrolled 38,000 adults aged 60 and over, showed that men and women who got the shingles vaccine were half as likely to get the ailment after an average follow-up period of three years compared to those given a placebo shot. Vaccinated study participants who did develop shingles also had reduced pain compared to participants given a placebo shot.

The vaccine was most effective in people ages 60-69 with increased decline in effectiveness associated with older age. Chickenpox Reactivated Research begun in the 1950s has shown that when we recover from childhood chickenpox infections, the virus that causes the infection, varicella zoster virus, remains latent in nerve cells. What causes reactivation of the virus is unclear, but as we age, experts believe the immune responses that keep varicella zoster virus dormant in the nerves weaken with age. One in three people will get shingles during their lifetime, and at least half of all people 85 and older have had the ailment. When you get a shingles rash , it typically involves a particular “dermatome,” that is, the skin area supplied by the involved nerve usually on one side of the body or face. However, in some cases the shingles rash can be widespread. Before the rash appears, people may have nerve symptoms of pain, itching , burning, or tingling. The rash has blisters that scab over in about a week. Although shingles isn’t contagious, the virus can spread to others and can cause chickenpox.

In DiCarlo’s case, the shingles involved the left side of his torso, in a band from the spine to the belly button. Antiviral drugs can be used to lessen the severity and duration of shingles, but effectiveness is dependent on using it as soon as possible. Pain medicines and other remedies may be used to help treat symptoms. Continued Controlling the Pain of Shingles Up to one in five people who get shingles suffer from postherpetic neuralgia, usually defined as zoster-related pain that occurs in the area of the shingles rash even after the rash is gone. It can last for a few weeks, months, or longer. The older you are when you have zoster, the more at risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia. “A lot of people get shingles and it’s relatively minor or moderate pain, and they get over it in a week. If that were the only risk, I would wonder about the overall usefulness of the vaccine ,” DiCarlo said. “But I have to say, if you can reduce getting postherpetic neuralgia by 65-70 percent, it’s worth it.

You don’t want to go through that.” When to Get Vaccinated The FDA approved the vaccine as a one-time dose for people 50 and over. As noted, the rate of shingles increases with age. Medicare part D covers the shingles vaccine, but your contribution to the cost may vary. Private insurance plans or Medicaid may not cover payment for the vaccine. You will need to check with your insurance company about coverage. What if you have never had chickenpox or have already had a case of shingles? You should still get vaccinated because studies show that nearly all adults 40 years and older have had chickenpox whether they remember having it or not. Also, if you’ve already had shingles, the vaccine can help protect against recurrence. The vaccine is not safe for all people. People who should NOT get the vaccine include: People who have ever had a life-threatening reaction to or are severely allergic to gelatin, neomycin, or any component of the shingles vaccine. People with a weakened immune system from certain medical conditions or treatments. Pregnant women or those who may be pregnant The most common side effects reported with getting the vaccine include redness, soreness, swelling or itching at the injection site, and headache .

Some people may develop a rash at the injection site that looks like chickenpox. Continued An Increase in Shingles: What’s the Cause? As we age, we become more susceptible to shingles, and people who are immune-suppressed, such as people with cancer or HIV , are also at higher risk of the disease. But other hypothesized triggers, such as stress or sunburn , remain unproven, says Stephanie R. Bialek, MD, MPH, leader of the herpes virus unit at the CDC’s Division of Viral Diseases. A study by the CDC and other scientists confirmed that since 1993, the incidence of shingles has nearly doubled in the adult U.S. population. One explanation for the increase has to do with the universal vaccination of children against chickenpox. According to this theory, because most children no longer get chickenpox disease (which used to be a ritual of childhood), their parents no longer get the immunological “boost” that comes from being exposed to the virus while caring for sick children.

“The best explanation for the increase is that we used to get a subclinical boost when we were exposed to the chickenpox virus as adults,” said William Schaffner, MD, a pediatrician and vaccine expert at Vanderbilt University. “Because of widespread immunization, that’s not happening.” But there are some reasons to doubt that childhood chickenpox shots are responsible for the uptick in shingles. In their study, Bialek and colleagues found that shingles was on the rise even before the chickenpox vaccine was licensed for children in 1995. Also, adults in states with mandatory chickenpox immunization didn’t have higher rates of shingles than those in states where children weren’t as well-vaccinated, and therefore more likely to get sick and provide immune boosters to parents and grandparents. It’s possible that as the U.S. population is getting older, more people are seeing their doctors for shingles. “There are probably different factors involved in the increase,” says Bialek. And it may take decades to sort it out. But regardless of whether shots against chickenpox increased the risk of shingles, the shot against shingles is the best way to avoid it.

WebMD Feature Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD on March 15, 2011 Sources Vaccine Information Statement | Shingles | VIS | CDC What You Need to Know What is shingles? Shingles is a painful skin rash, often with blisters. It is also called Herpes Zoster, or just Zoster. A shingles rash usually appears on one side of the face or body and lasts from 2 to 4 weeks. Its main symptom is pain, which can be quite severe. Other symptoms of shingles can include fever, headache, chills and upset stomach. Very rarely, a shingles infection can lead to pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness, brain inflammation (encephalitits) or death. For about 1 person in 5, severe pain can continue even long after the rash clears up. This is called post-herpetic neuralgia. Shingles is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Only someone who has had chickenpox – or, rarely, has gotten chickenpox vaccine – can get shingles. The virus stays in your body, and can cause shingles many years later.

You can’t catch shingles from another person with shingles. However, a person who has never had chickenpox (or chickenpox vaccine) could get chickenpox from someone with shingles. This is not very common. Shingles is far more common in people 50 years of age and older than in younger people. It is also more common in people whose immune systems are weakened because of a disease such as cancer, or drugs such as steroids or chemotherapy. At least 1 million people a year in the United States get shingles. Top of Page Shingles vaccine A vaccine for shingles was licensed in 2006. In clinical trials, the vaccine reduced the risk of shingles by 50%. It can also reduce pain in people who still get shingles after being vaccinated. A single dose of shingles vaccine is recommended for adults 60 years of age and older. Some people should not get shingles vaccine or should wait. A person should not get shingles vaccine who: has ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, or any other component of shingles vaccine. Tell your doctor if you have any severe allergies.

has a weakened immune system because of current: AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system, treatment with drugs that affect the immune system, such as prolonged use of high-dose steroids, cancer treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy, cancer affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system, such as leukemia or lymphoma. is pregnant, or might be pregnant. Women should not become pregnant until at least 4 weeks after getting shingles vaccine. Someone with a minor acute illness, such as a cold, may be vaccinated. But anyone with a moderate or severe acute illness should usually wait until they recover before getting the vaccine. This includes anyone with a temperature of 101.3°F or higher. Top of Page What are the risks from shingles vaccine? A vaccine, like any medicine, could possibly cause serious problems, such as severe allergic reactions. However, the risk of a vaccine causing serious harm, or death, is extremely small. No serious problems have been identified with shingles vaccine. Mild problems Redness, soreness, swelling, or itching at the site of the injection (about 1 person in 3). Headache (about 1 person in 70).

Like all vaccines, shingles vaccine is being closely monitored for unusual or severe problems. What if there is a serious reaction? What should I look for? Look for anything that concerns you, such as signs of a severe allergic reaction, very high fever, or behavior changes. Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, and weakness. These would start a few minutes to a few hours after the vaccination. What should I do? If you think it is a severe allergic reaction or other emergency that can’t wait, call 9-1-1 or get the person to the nearest hospital. Otherwise, call your doctor. Afterward, the reaction should be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Your doctor might file this report, or you can do it yourself through the VAERS website , or by calling 1-800-822-7967. VAERS is only for reporting reactions. They do not give medical advice. How can I learn more? Ask your doctor.

Shingles - NHS Choices Shingles Shingles Complications Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection of a nerve and the skin around it. It's caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. It's estimated around one in every four people will have at least one episode of shingles during their life. This topic covers: Ophthalmic shingles Symptoms of shingles The main symptom of shingles is pain, followed by a rash that develops into itchy blisters , similar in appearance to chickenpox . New blisters may appear for up to a week, but a few days after appearing they become yellowish in colour, flatten and dry out. Scabs then form where the blisters were, which may leave some slight scarring and loss of skin pigment. The pain may be a constant, dull or burning sensation, and its intensity can vary from mild to severe. You may have sharp stabbing pains from time to time, and the affected area of skin will usually be tender. In some cases shingles may cause some early symptoms that develop a few days before the painful rash first appears.

These early symptoms can include: burning, tingling, numbness or itchiness of the skin in the affected area a feeling of being generally unwell a high temperature (fever) An episode of shingles typically lasts around two to four weeks. It usually affects a specific area on just one side of the body. It doesn't cross over the midline of the body, an imaginary line running from between your eyes down past the belly button. Any part of your body can be affected, including your face and eyes, but the chest and tummy (abdomen) are the most common areas. When to seek medical advice Shingles isn't usually serious, but see your GP as soon as possible if you recognise the symptoms. They'll usually be able to diagnose shingles based on your symptoms and the appearance of the rash. Early treatment may help reduce the severity of your symptoms and the risk of developing complications.

Referral to hospital It's uncommon for someone with shingles to be referred to hospital, but your GP may consider seeking specialist advice if: you have a weakened immune system – particularly in severe cases or cases affecting children Causes of shingles Most people have chickenpox in childhood, but after the illness has gone the varicella-zoster virus remains inactive (dormant) in the nervous system. The immune system keeps the virus in check, but it can be reactivated later in life and cause shingles. It's possible to have shingles more than once, but it's very rare to get it more than twice. It's not known exactly why the shingles virus is reactivated at a later stage in life, but most cases are thought to be caused by having lowered protection against infections and diseases (immunity).

This may be the result of: old age – as you age, your immunity may decrease; shingles most commonly occurs in people over the age of 70 physical and emotional stress – the chemicals released by your body when you're stressed can prevent your immune system working properly HIV and AIDS – people with HIV are much more likely to get shingles than the rest of the population because their immune system is weak recently having a bone marrow transplant – the conditioning you require before the transplant weakens your immune system recently having an organ transplant – you may need to take medication to suppress your immune system so your body accepts the donated organ chemotherapy – chemotherapy medication, often used to treat cancer , can temporarily weaken your immune system However, young people who are otherwise healthy can also sometimes develop shingles. Is shingles contagious? It's not possible to catch shingles from someone with the condition or from someone with chickenpox. However, you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you haven't had chickenpox before. The blisters of shingles contain live virus. If a person who has never had chickenpox makes direct contact with an open blister or something with the fluid on it, they can contract the virus and develop chickenpox.

Preventing the spread of the virus If you have shingles, you're contagious until the last blister has dried and scabbed over. To help prevent the virus being passed on, avoid sharing towels or flannels, swimming or playing contact sports. You should also avoid work or school if your rash is oozing fluid (weeping) and can't be covered. Chickenpox can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people. If you have shingles, avoid: women who are pregnant and haven't had chickenpox before as they could catch it from you – this may harm their unborn baby people who have a weak immune system – such as someone with HIV or AIDS babies less than one month old – unless it's your own baby, in which case your baby should have proteins that fight infection (antibodies) to protect them from the virus Treating shingles Although there's no cure for shingles, treatment is available to relieve the symptoms until the condition resolves. Most cases of shingles last around two to four weeks.

Treatment for shingles can include: covering the rash with clothing or a non-stick (non-adherent) dressing to reduce the risk of other people becoming infected with chickenpox – it's very difficult to pass the virus on to someone else if the rash is covered painkilling medication – such as paracetamol , ibuprofen or codeine antiviral medication to stop the virus multiplying – although not everyone will need this Read more about treating shingles . Complications of shingles Shingles can sometimes lead to complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia . This is where severe nerve pain lasts for several months or more after the rash has gone. Complications like this are usually in elderly people who have had the condition and those with a weakened immune system. Read more about complications of shingles . The shingles vaccine It's not always possible to prevent shingles, but a vaccine called Zostavax can reduce your chances of developing the condition. If you still develop shingles after having this vaccine, it may be milder and last for a shorter time than usual. This vaccine is now routinely offered on the NHS as a single injection to people aged 70 and 78. Check with your GP if you're eligible to receive it.

Read about: Chickenpox: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Most children with chickenpox have the following symptoms before the rash appears: Fever Headache Stomach ache The chickenpox rash occurs about 10 to 21 days after coming into contact with someone who had the disease. In most cases, a child will develop 250 to 500 small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters over red spots on the skin. The blisters are most often first seen on the face, middle of the body, or scalp. After a day or two, the blisters become cloudy and then scab. Meanwhile, new blisters form in groups. They often appear in the mouth, in the vagina, and on the eyelids. Children with skin problems, such as eczema, may get thousands of blisters. Most pox will not leave scars unless they become infected with bacteria from scratching. Some children who have had the vaccine will still develop a mild case of chickenpox. In most cases, they recover much more quickly and have only a few poxes (fewer than 30). These cases are often harder to diagnose. However, these children can still spread chickenpox to others.

Exams and Tests Your health care provider can most often diagnose chickenpox by looking at the rash and asking questions about the person's medical history. Small blisters on the scalp confirm the diagnosis in most cases. Lab tests can help confirm the diagnosis, if needed. Treatment Treatment involves keeping the person as comfortable as possible. Here are things to try: Avoid scratching or rubbing the itchy areas. Keep fingernails short to avoid damaging the skin from scratching. Wear cool, light, loose bedclothes. Avoid wearing rough clothing, particularly wool, over an itchy area. Take lukewarm baths using little soap and rinse thoroughly. Try a skin-soothing oatmeal or cornstarch bath. Apply a soothing moisturizer after bathing to soften and cool the skin. Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat and humidity. Try over-the-counter oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), but be aware of possible side effects, such as drowsiness. Try over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on itchy areas. Medicines that fight the chickenpox virus are available, but not given to everyone.

To work well, the medicine should be started within the first 24 hours of the rash. Antiviral drugs are not very often prescribed to otherwise healthy children who do not have severe symptoms. Adults and teens, who are at risk for more severe symptoms, may benefit from antiviral medicine if it is given early. Antiviral medicine may be very important for those who have skin conditions (such as eczema or recent sunburn), lung conditions (such as asthma), or who have recently taken steroids. Some providers also give antiviral medicines to people in the same household who also develop chickenpox, because they will most often develop more severe symptoms. Do NOT give aspirin or ibuprofen to someone who may have chickenpox. Use of aspirin has been associated with a serious condition called Reyes syndrome . Ibuprofen has been associated with more severe secondary infections. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be used. A child with chickenpox should not return to school or play with other children until all chickenpox sores have crusted over or dried out. Adults should follow this same rule while considering when to return to work or be around others.

Outlook (Prognosis) In most cases, a person recovers without complications. Once you have had chickenpox, the virus often remains dormant or asleep in your body for your lifetime. About 1 in 10 adults will have shingles when the virus re-emerges during a period of stress. Possible Complications Infection of the heart muscle Pneumonia Joint pain or swelling Cerebellar ataxia may appear during the recovery phase or later. This involves a very unsteady walk. Women who get chickenpox during pregnancy can pass the infection to the developing baby. Newborns are at risk for severe infection. When to Contact a Medical Professional Call your provider if you think that your child has chickenpox or if your child is over 12 months of age and has not been vaccinated against chickenpox. Prevention Because chickenpox is airborne and spreads very easily even before the rash appears, it is hard to avoid. A vaccine to prevent chickenpox is part of a child's routine vaccine schedule. The vaccine often prevents the chickenpox disease completely or makes the illness very mild. Talk to your provider if you think your child might be at high risk for complications and might have been exposed.

Taking preventive steps right away may be important. Giving the vaccine early after exposure may still reduce the severity of the disease. Alternative Names Chickenpox - close-up References La Russa PS, Marin M. Varicella-zoster virus In: Kliegman RM, Stanton BF, St Geme JW III, Schor NF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 253. Strikas RA; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP); ACIP Child/Adolescent Immunization Work Group. Advisory committee on immunization practices recommended immunization schedules for persons aged 0 through 18 years -- United States, 2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2015;64(4):93-94. PMID: 25654610 . Vaccine information statement: Chickenpox vaccine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site: . Accessed August 18, 2015.

This article uses information by permission from Alan Greene, M.D., © Greene Ink, Inc. Read More Varicella - National Library of Medicine - PubMed Health Post‐exposure prophylaxis vaccine to prevent varicella (chickenpox) This review assessed how useful the varicella (also known as chickenpox) vaccine is in preventing chickenpox when given to children or adults who have never been immunised or previously had chickenpox, but who receive the vaccine within a short time following exposure to a person infectious with chickenpox. Varicella is a highly contagious viral infection characterised by a widespread pustular rash, fever and generally feeling unwell. We identified three trials involving 110 healthy children who were siblings of household contacts. Acyclovir can reduce the number of days with fever in otherwise healthy children with chickenpox, but its effect on sores and itching is not yet certain Chickenpox (varicella) is caused by a virus. It begins with a fever, followed by a rash of red pimples which become itchy sores that form scabs. Chickenpox usually affects children from one to 14 years.

In young babies, adults or people with impaired immune system, chickenpox is more severe. Treatments include lotions to relieve itchiness, paracetamol (acetaminophen) for fever and the antiviral drug acyclovir. The review of trials found that acyclovir reduces the number of days of fever from chickenpox in otherwise healthy children, usually without adverse effects. It is not clear whether it improves sores and itching. Varicella and influenza vaccines may reduce morbidity in patients with blood cancers Viral infections cause significant disease and even death in patients with blood cancers. In the current systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of viral vaccines in these patients. The pre‐defined primary outcome was incidence of the infection concerned. Secondary outcomes were mortality due to the viral infection, all‐cause mortality, incidence of complications, incidence of severe viral infection, hospitalization rate, in vitro immune response and frequency of adverse effects. Eight RCTs were included. They evaluated heat‐inactivated varicella zoster virus (VZV) vaccine (two trials), influenza vaccines (five trials) and inactivated poliovirus vaccine (one trial).

There were no RCTs on other viral vaccines (hepatitis A, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella). Only the two trials on VZV vaccine reported our pre‐defined primary outcome. All trials reported some of the pre‐defined secondary outcomes. We found that inactivated VZV vaccine might reduce the severity of herpes zoster when given before and after stem cell transplant in adults with lymphoma or leukemia. Inactivated influenza vaccine might reduce upper and lower respiratory infections and hospitalization in adults with multiple myeloma who are undergoing chemotherapy, or children with leukemia or lymphoma within two years post‐chemotherapy. However, the quality of evidence is not high. Local adverse effects occur frequently with the vaccines, although serious adverse effects appear uncommon. Further high‐quality RCTs are needed to clarify the benefits and optimal regimens of viral vaccines for patients with blood cancers.

Post‐exposure prophylaxis vaccine to prevent varicella (chickenpox) This review assessed how useful the varicella (also known as chickenpox) vaccine is in preventing chickenpox when given to children or adults who have never been immunised or previously had chickenpox, but who receive the vaccine within a short time following exposure to a person infectious with chickenpox. Varicella is a highly contagious viral infection characterised by a widespread pustular rash, fever and generally feeling unwell. We identified three trials involving 110 healthy children who were siblings of household contacts. How can you avoid getting chickenpox? Chickenpox is highly contagious. If you are not immunized and have never had chicken pox, contact with someone who has it will almost always leave you infected. Early vaccination and being careful around those who already have chickenpox are the most important precautions you can take.Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, one of the herpes viruses. The German Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) at the Robert Koch Institute recommends being vaccinated to lower your chances of infection.

If you or someone in your family gets chickenpox there are several things you can do to avoid getting it yourself.Most importantly, people who have chickenpox should avoid contact with anyone who has not had it and who also may be more likely to develop more severe symptoms. This especially includes people with a weakened immune system, newborn babies, and non-vaccinated adults. The virus can harm the unborn child during pregnancy, and can be life-threatening for newborns. But although chickenpox is very unpleasant, it only rarely has serious consequences for otherwise healthy children. Acyclovir can reduce the number of days with fever in otherwise healthy children with chickenpox, but its effect on sores and itching is not yet certain Chickenpox (varicella) is caused by a virus. It begins with a fever, followed by a rash of red pimples which become itchy sores that form scabs. Chickenpox usually affects children from one to 14 years. In young babies, adults or people with impaired immune system, chickenpox is more severe. Treatments include lotions to relieve itchiness, paracetamol (acetaminophen) for fever and the antiviral drug acyclovir.

The review of trials found that acyclovir reduces the number of days of fever from chickenpox in otherwise healthy children, usually without adverse effects. It is not clear whether it improves sores and itching.

Question: If you suffered from varicella what have you got?
Answer: Chickenpox